Health Update: Glue ear myth

CHILDREN with glue ear are still being referred for removal of their tonsils by GPs, despite the fact that the operation is now thought to make little difference, according to research from the National Children's Hospital, Dublin. A survey of 400 GPs found that 67 per cent thought ear infections an important factor in referral for a tonsillectomy, compared with only 18 per cent of consultants. GPs' reasons for requesting a tonsillectomy may reflect outdated beliefs, researchers conclude in the Journal of Laryngology and Otology.